As artificial intelligence changes how people learn, work, and communicate, OLLU is helping create space for a question that reaches beyond the technology: What does it mean to stay human?
That question anchors the next AI Confluence session, “Humanity in AI: A Liberal Arts Approach,” on Friday, Nov. 13, from 12:30–1:30 p.m. The hybrid event will take place at the St. Mary’s University Law Library and on Zoom, bringing together perspectives from history, philosophy, English and Catholic studies.
The series is a collaboration among Our Lady of the Lake University, St. Mary’s University and the University of the Incarnate Word. Open to faculty, staff, students and the wider community, it invites participants to explore AI’s implications for education, careers, ethics and human relationships. No technical background is needed.
Dr. Stacy Evans, director of OLLU’s Center for Teaching Excellence, co-founded the series with teaching and learning colleagues from the partner universities in 2025. The collaboration grew from a shared recognition that their campuses were asking many of the same questions.
“OLLU, St. Mary’s and UIW share a city, a Catholic mission and a commitment to the people of San Antonio, so the partnership felt natural,” Evans said.
The name reflects that collaborative purpose. Just as rivers meet at a confluence, the series brings institutions and disciplines together to develop a fuller understanding of AI and its influence.
Previous panels have examined AI in economics, ethics and education. The November discussion will consider what the liberal arts and Catholic intellectual tradition contribute to responsible AI use, how technology might support the development of the whole person, and what universities should teach students preparing for work and citizenship alongside AI.
Representing OLLU will be Dr. Valerie A. Martinez, associate professor of history. She will join Dr. James Greenaway of St. Mary’s Department of Philosophy and Dr. Laura Lopez of UIW’s English Department. Dr. Jason King, director of the Center for Catholic Studies at St. Mary’s, will moderate.
Martinez’s historical perspective will help place today’s changes within a longer story of societies adapting to powerful technologies.
“Historical understanding helps us see patterns: who gained and who lost access, how education adapted, and which fears and promises came true,” Evans said. “That perspective helps us make wiser choices now, especially for the students and communities OLLU serves.”
For faculty, the discussion can also provide ideas to carry into teaching. Evans described possibilities such as asking students to compare their own thinking with an AI-generated response, reflect on what the tool missed, or help develop classroom guidelines for responsible use.
OLLU’s Center for Teaching Excellence helps shape the series’ programming and coordinate planning and evaluation across the three institutions. The partnership also connects with OLLU’s broader faculty development efforts, including the AI Algoritmo Academy, a two-day intensive held in July with faculty and staff from the three universities and the Alamo Colleges.
The Nov. 13 session will include audience questions and discussion, with virtual participants able to contribute through Zoom chat. Organizers are also inviting employers and community partners into the conversation, including through outreach with the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce.
Two additional panels are planned for spring 2027: a student discussion titled “Worried about AI?” and a conversation with religious sisters, brothers and faculty about human dignity, compassion and the common good. Confirmed dates will be shared through university announcements.
For Evans, the series offers an invitation to participate even when the subject feels unfamiliar.
“You are not alone, and you do not need to be an expert to belong in this conversation,” she said. “Some of the most important questions about AI are not technical. They are about values, relationships and purpose, and everyone has something to contribute to that conversation.”
Registration is requested for both in-person and virtual attendance. The session will be recorded, and registrants will receive access afterward, including those unable to attend live.